Belle Île Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Belle Île, France with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food scene, accommodations, and more!


Are you looking for a tranquil and serene destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Look no further than Belle Île, a picturesque island located off the Southern coast of Brittany, France. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, Belle Île is a hidden gem that every traveler should experience. Keep reading this comprehensive travel guide to plan your ultimate trip to Belle Île!

Introduction to Belle Île

Belle Île is the largest of Brittany’s islands, offering diverse landscapes such as rugged coastlines, hidden beaches, and verdant countryside. The island’s main settlement is Le Palais, which serves as the gateway to a range of historical and cultural attractions, outdoor activities, hiking/biking trails, and natural beauty spots. The island offers a peaceful and relaxing environment, making it perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Belle Île

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Citadel of Le Palais: The citadel is a stunning fortress built in the 17th century to protect Belle Île from the English. Explore its labyrinthine alleys and admire the sweeping views of the sea.

  • The Sarah Bernhardt Museum: Sarah Bernhardt, one of the world’s most famous actresses, was a regular visitor to Belle Île. This museum is dedicated to her, and you can see her collection of memorabilia, including letters, photos, and costumes.

  • La Maison Victor Hugo: Victor Hugo, one of France’s greatest writers, lived on Belle Île for two years in the 19th century. La Maison Victor Hugo is a museum that chronicles his time on the island.

Natural Attractions of Belle Île: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grotte de l’Apothicairerie: This sea cave is a hidden gem of Belle Île. It is accessible only by boat, and you can explore the unique rock formations and mysterious caverns.

  • La Pointe des Poulains: This rocky promontory is located on the Northern tip of Belle Île and offers stunning views of the ocean. It is home to a lighthouse, the Saint-Michel fort, and a museum dedicated to Sarah Bernhardt.

  • Plage de Donnant: This long stretch of golden sand is one of Belle Île’s largest beaches, popular with surfers and kiteboarders.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belle Île

Belle Île offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, all of which offer different levels of difficulty and length. Here are some of our favorite routes:

  • Sentier des Douaniers: This trail is a 14 km long trek that hugs the coastline of the island. It takes you through rocky coves, heathlands, and wooded areas. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged coastline.

  • Circuit des Salines: This trail takes you through the marshlands of Belle Île, home to a variety of bird species. The circuit is 10km long and is an easy walk, perfect for families with children.

  • Boucle des Trois Citadelles: This trail takes you to the three citadels that have protected Belle Île throughout history: Le Palais, Locmaria, and Sauzon. The trail is 40 km long and can be done as a multi-day hike or a bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Belle Île: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking: Paddle around Belle Île’s rugged coastline and explore its hidden beaches and sea caves.

  • Horse Riding: Explore the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective by taking a horse ride. It is an excellent way to discover the island’s hidden trails, forests, and cliffs.

  • Boat Tours: Get a different view of the island from the sea by taking a boat tour. You can choose from different types of tours, such as sunset tours or tours that take you to the island’s most secluded beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Belle Île

Day 1: Explore Le Palais, visit the Citadel, and stroll through the town’s streets.

Day 2: Take a boat tour around the island and discover its hidden coves, beaches, and sea caves.

Day 3: Hike the Sentier des Douaniers and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 4: Visit La Pointe des Poulains and the Sarah Bernhardt Museum.

Day 5: Rent a bike and cycle through the villages of Locmaria and Sauzon.

Day 6: Relax on Belle Île’s biggest beach, Plage de Donnant.

Day 7: Take a horse ride around the island’s countryside and forest.

Food and Drink Scene of Belle Île

Belle Île’s cuisine is simple but delicious, with seafood being a highlight of the island’s gastronomy. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crêpes: Brittany is famous for its savory and sweet crêpes. Be sure to try some on Belle Île.

  • Soupe de Poissons: This is a traditional fish soup made with local fish and vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful dish.

  • Galette: A savory buckwheat pancake that is often stuffed with ham, cheese, and egg.

Local Beverages

  • Cidre: Brittany is the second-largest producer of cider in France. Be sure to try some of the local cider.

  • Chouchen: This is a mead made from honey, often enjoyed as an aperitif.

Where to Stay in Belle Île: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The island offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Le Clos Fleuri: A beautiful 3-star hotel located in the heart of Le Palais. It offers cozy and tastefully decorated rooms and a garden.

  • Auberge de Jeunesse Belle-Île-en-Mer: A youth hostel with shared and private rooms located in Le Palais.

  • La Désirade: A guesthouse located in Sauzon, a small village on the Western coast of Belle Île.

What to Buy in Belle Île: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Belle Île offers a range of locally made products that make unique and meaningful souvenirs. Here are some ideas:

  • Pottery: Belle Île has a rich pottery tradition, and you can find many beautiful pieces in local shops.

  • Belle Île Honey: The island’s bees produce delicious honey that is sold in farmers’ markets and local shops.

  • Belle Île Salt: The island’s salt marshes produce high-quality sea salt, which makes a perfect gift or souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Belle Île

Belle Île’s culture is heavily influenced by its maritime and Celtic roots. The island has a strong sense of community, and locals are welcoming and friendly to visitors. Be sure to respect the island’s natural beauty and customs, such as keeping the beaches clean and not disturbing the wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Belle Île

The best time to visit Belle Île is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the island is bustling with tourists and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belle Île

Do:

  • Respect the island’s natural beauty, keep the beaches clean and refrain from damaging the natural environment.

  • Be respectful of the locals and their customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave your trash on the beaches or in nature.

  • Don’t disturb wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Belle Île

Belle Île is a generally safe destination, with low levels of crime. However, as with any destination, take care of your belongings and avoid flashing valuables.

Health in Belle Île

Belle Île has a medical center located in Le Palais, and there are several pharmacies on the island. However, it is best to have comprehensive travel insurance in case of any unexpected illnesses or accidents.

Getting to Belle Île: Transportation Options and Logistics

Belle Île is accessible by ferry from the Quiberon peninsula. You can reach Quiberon by car, train, or bus. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes and is operated by Compagnie Océane. During the peak summer season, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance.

Airports Near Belle Île

The nearest airport to Belle Île is Nantes airport, which is serviced by several airlines, including Air France, Ryanair, and EasyJet.

Bus Stations Near Belle Île

The nearest bus station to Belle Île is in Auray, which connects to Quiberon with regular services.

Other Options

You can also reach Belle Île by private boat or plane. However, these options are only recommended for experienced sailors or pilots.

How to Get Around in Belle Île

Belle Île is best explored on foot, by bike, or by car. Bikes and cars can be rented on the island, and there is a regular bus service that connects the different towns and villages.

Where to Go Next from Belle Île: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Quiberon: a popular seaside resort on the Brittany peninsula, with a range of beaches, bars, and restaurants.

  • Vannes: a charming medieval city located an hour’s drive from Belle Île. Admire its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets.

  • Carnac: a coastal town famous for its prehistoric standing stones and megaliths.

Conclusion

Belle Île is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and relaxation. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Belle Île and experience the island’s unique charm. Happy travels!